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Complaint of defamation by colleagues can be a qualifying ‘whistleblowing’ disclosure

However, under S.43B, a worker also has to show that he or she believed that the disclosure was in the public interest. Here, Ibrahim did not have a subjective belief in the public interest element of his disclosure – his concern was only that false rumours had been made about him and he was seeking to protect his personal interest.
dismissal

One of the ‘whistleblowing’ disclosures qualifying for protection under S.43B of the Employment Rights Act 1996 is one tending to show a failure to comply with any legal obligation. But can a complaint by an employee that others are falsely blaming him for breaches of confidentiality, of such seriousness that he has to clear his name, qualify under that provision? “Yes” said the EAT in Ibrahim v HCA International Ltd because the provision is broad enough to include defamation and breach of statutory duty such as those contained in the Defamation Act 2013. However, under S.43B, a worker also has to show that he or she believed that the disclosure was in the public interest. Here, Ibrahim did not have a subjective belief in the public interest element of his disclosure – his concern was only that false rumours had been made about him and he was seeking to protect his personal interest. So, while Ibrahim met one part of the test, he had failed another, and the disclosure was not protected.  


The updates are kindly provided by Simons Muirhead & Burton Law firm

This update provides summary information and comment on the subject areas covered. Where employment tribunal and appellate court cases are reported, the information does not set out all of the facts, the legal arguments presented and help judgments made in every aspect of the case. Click on the links to access full details. If no link is provided, contact us for more information.  Employment law is subject to constant change either by statute or by interpretation by the courts. While every care has been taken in compiling this information, SM&B cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Specialist legal advice must be taken on any legal issues that may arise before embarking upon any formal course of action.

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